Is it better to store breastmilk in glass or plastic?

The Great Debate: Glass vs. Plastic for Breastmilk Storage
When it comes to storing breastmilk, parents are often faced with a crucial decision: should they opt for glass or plastic containers? This choice not only impacts the safety and quality of the milk but also raises questions about environmental sustainability and health implications.
Health Considerations
Recent studies have highlighted significant differences between glass and plastic in terms of health safety. Glass containers are generally considered superior because they do not leach harmful chemicals into the milk. While many plastic containers are labeled as BPA-free, concerns remain about other potentially harmful substances that can still be present in plastics. Research indicates that breastmilk stored in glass retains more antibodies compared to that stored in plastic, which is vital for a baby’s immune system. This makes glass a preferred choice for parents who prioritize the nutritional integrity of their milk.
Environmental Impact
From an environmental perspective, glass is often touted as the more sustainable option. Glass bottles are reusable and recyclable, reducing waste significantly compared to single-use plastic containers. They have a longer lifespan, allowing parents to wash and reuse them countless times without the degradation that often affects plastic over time. This longevity not only benefits the environment but also provides a cost-effective solution for families who plan to store milk over extended periods.
Practicality and Usability
However, practicality cannot be overlooked. Glass containers can be heavier and more prone to breakage than their plastic counterparts, which may be a concern for parents on the go. Many modern glass bottles come with protective silicone sleeves to mitigate this risk, making them easier to grip and less likely to shatter. On the other hand, BPA-free plastic containers are lightweight and less fragile, which can be advantageous for busy parents whoGlass vs. Plastic for Breastmilk Storage
The consensus among experts is that glass is the preferred material for storing breastmilk over plastic. Here’s a detailed look at the key considerations:
Leaching of Chemicals: Plastic containers, even those labeled as BPA-free, can still leach other chemicals into the breastmilk over time. Glass, on the other hand, is a more inert material that does not leach chemicals.
Antibody Retention: Studies have shown that breastmilk stored in glass containers retains more of its beneficial antibodies compared to milk stored in plastic.
Durability: Glass bottles and containers are more durable and less prone to cracking or breaking over repeated use and washing. This makes them a better long-term storage option, especially for freezing breastmilk.
Environmental Impact: Glass is a more environmentally-friendly choice as it can be washed and reused many times, whereas plastic bottles have a shorter lifespan.
Ease of Use: While glass bottles may be slightly heavier, many parents find them easier to grip and handle compared to thin plastic bottles.
In summary, the scientific evidence and expert recommendations clearly point to glass as the superior material for safely storing expressed breastmilk, both in terms of preserving the milk’s nutritional and immune-boosting properties, as well as being a more durable and eco-friendly option. The consensus is that glass should be the go-to choice for breastmilk storage whenever possible.

Does glass keep milk colder than plastic?

Glass bottles have a better, more airtight seal than their cardboard counterparts. Glass also stays colder outside of the fridge longer than plastic and cardboard do, making trips in-and-out of the refrigerator and to the dinner table and back less of a risk for bacteria-friendly warmer temperatures to build.

What are the do’s and don’ts of storing breast milk?

Never store breast milk in disposable bottle liners or plastic bags that are not intended for storing breast milk. Freshly expressed or pumped milk can be stored: At room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. In the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

What is the best material for breastmilk storage?

Look for trays made from silicone or other BPA- and BPS-free, food-grade material. Trays should also have lids to protect milk from freezer burn. Options include: Milkies Milk Trays are made from food-grade plastic that’s also BPA-free.

Is glass better than silicone for breast milk storage?

Silicone bags specifically for breastmilk storage have emerged in the past few years. Silicone is made from naturally-occurring silica, and silicone bags are lightweight, BPA-free, easy to clean, and more compact than glass jars.

Which container is best for storing breast milk?

When collecting breast milk, be sure to store it in clean containers such as screw cap bottles, hard plastic cups with tight lids, or heavy-duty bags that fit directly into bottles. Avoid using ordinary plastic storage bags or formula bottle bags, ask these can easily leak or spill.

Should you store breast milk in glass or plastic?

Before expressing or handling breast milk, wash your hands with soap and water. Then store the expressed milk in a clean, capped food-grade glass container or hard plastic container that’s not made with the chemical bisphenol A (BPA). You can also use special plastic bags designed for milk collection and storage.

Which is better glass or plastic milk bottles?

Glass bottles keep milk cold longer. Colder milk is tastier milk. Glass dairy containers are good for the environment because glass is one of the most recyclable materials you can use. It’s actually 100% recyclable and it can be recycled endlessly—without loss in quality or purity—into new glass bottles or jars.

What are the disadvantages of milk in glass bottles?

Major disadvantages of glass are fragility and heavy weight.

What container keeps milk fresh longer?

The final results show that, while glass remains an ideal container for preserving milk flavor, plastic containers provide additional benefits while also maintaining freshness in the absence of light exposure.

What is the best way to store pumped breast milk?

Freshly expressed or pumped milk can be stored: At room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. In the refrigerator for up to 4 days. In the freezer for about 6 months is best; up to 12 months is acceptable.